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Lane County, Springfield ‘making progress’ on behavioral health campus
Lane County officials need Springfield councilors to bless their request for an annexation before a stabilization center can move forward.
Performance Foodservice becomes first western Massachusetts Purple Heart business
Performance Foodservice in Springfield became the first company in western Massachusetts to be designated a Purple Heart Business.
Health department seeks opioid settlement money for resource mapping
The Springfield-Greene County Health Department has requested up to $500,000 in opioid settlement funds for a health care mapping project.
Mental health is health
SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (CAPITOL CITY NOW) - The stigma is slowly going away when the subject is mental health. "Being able to talk more openly about these topics, I think, is really important. I think that is a huge piece of suicide prevention," says Lauren Yoggerst, mobile crisis unit manager at Memorial Behavioral Health. "Making sure
Springfield business owners say MGM casino, falling short of expectations, has been no jackpot
The would-be love story between MGM Springfield and city officials had been tested for years, but perhaps officially ended when the city filed suit against the company for failing to live up to its host agreement. South End merchants have mixed views of the casino's impact.
Husted Senate campaign fires political director after Nazi photo surfaces
U.S. Sen. Jon Husted, R-Ohio, speaks to the media following a roundtable discussion with local representatives from defense firms, educational programs and other organizations on Friday, March 6, 2026. CORNELIUS FROLIK / STAFF
Checking In on the Cardinals’ 2025 Draft Class
Sadly, the minor league season is winding to a close with only Springfield and Memphis still playing. I thought now would be a good time to check out how last year’s draft class fared in their first professional season. First Round (5th overall) – Liam Doyle, LHP Doyle started the season slow, but ended up […]
Highlights from Springfield, Jermaine Cobbins' win over Station Camp
See highlights from Springfield's 35-21 win over Station Camp on Sept. 11, 2026.
Election 2016 Transgender Politics
FILE - A woman holds a sign supporting trans people during a rally before a WNBA basketball game between the Portland Fire and the Indiana Fever in Portland, Ore., July 31, 2026. (AP Photo/Craig Mitchelldyer, File)
Looking Glass plans a secure inpatient behavioral health facility for youth in Eugene
Looking Glass is planning a secure inpatient facility for youth with severe behavioral health needs in Eugene with 12 beds.
Oregon Sen. Jeff Merkley, U.S. Rep. Val Hoyle, raise concerns about corruption in Springfield townhall
Oregon Sen. Jeff Merkley and U.S. Rep. Val Hoyle held a “stop the corruption” town hall in Springfield Thursday. The town hall was a part of a tour focusing on concerns about corruption in politics.
Springfield Boutique offers 6-week business training
Charlene’s Boutique has partnered with the Legacy Economic Development Corporation to launch a new youth leadership program. The six-week initiative is open to Springfield residents ages 16 t…
Housing, addiction, politics and the touchy subject of homelessness
Accountability means little if we blame the wrong people for the wrong results. Monique DeSpain has made the case for judging Oregon’s homelessness system by results. But the burden is hers to explain what she would change through Congress — and how voters should decide if it worked.
Rick Springfield says it’s ‘hard’ to process his memory of killing man in Vietnam: ‘Didn’t really know what I was doing’
“It still seems like years ago, another guy, another place.”
Rick Springfield says it’s ‘hard’ to process his memory of killing man in Vietnam: ‘Didn’t really know what I was doing’
Rick Springfield is haunted by killing a man in Vietnam when his band toured an active war zone when he was a teenager in the late 1960s: ‘It still seems like years ago, another guy, another place.’
An uplifting season - Illinois Times, the capital city's weekly source of news, politics, arts, entertainment, culture
I’ll be the first to admit, I’m not much of a sports fan. The idea of the Women’s Professional Baseball League playing its inaugural season in Springfield was interesting as a historical happening. But it was not until Lucky Horseshoes Chief Storyteller Jamie Toole spoke at our neighborhood association meeting that I committed to going […]
OPINION: A mental health crisis should end in treatment, not death
The death of Jayden Stephenson shows what can happen when Ohio's civil commitment process isn't used as intended.
Clark County program connects inmates to mental health care before release
Several Clark County organizations are working together to strengthen behavioral health services and care coordination for those involved in the justice system.
Health insurance premiums estimated to increase upwards of 10%, analyses say
Health insurance premiums in Ohio are expected to increase by about 10.7%, according to an analysis from Healthinsurance.org based on health premiums in the individual market. Affordable Care Act Marketplace insurers are proposing a median premium increase of 15% in 2027, according to an analysis of insurers with publicly available filings by KFF, a nonprofit health policy research, polling, and news organization.
Health insurance premiums estimated to increased upwards of 10%, analyses say
Health insurance premiums in Ohio are expected to increase by about 10.7%, according to an analysis from Healthinsurance.org based on health premiums in the individual market. Affordable Care Act Marketplace insurers are proposing a median premium increase of 15% in 2027, according to an analysis of insurers with publicly available filings by KFF, a nonprofit health policy research, polling, and news organization.
Women's baseball league providing sense of community for fans
The Women's Pro Baseball League is making history in Springfield, offering a space for fans to feel seen.
Opinion | Minogue’s bad joke raises questions about Springfield courthouse award
The issue has something to do with Massachusetts politics, not MAGA politics.
New Eugene facility will expand Oregon’s residential behavioral health system for youth
A 12-bed secure inpatient treatment facility in Eugene will serve youth ages 10-17 with acute behavioral health needs.
Council leans toward denying Springfield behavioral health campus annexation
Councillors did not vote on the annexation at the meeting but considered whether the planned crisis stabilization center and behavioral health hospital are consistent with the city’s plans for the area, which is designated for light industrial uses.
Springfield Health Department partners with Big Y for free vaccine clinics
The Springfield Department of Health and Human Services and Big Y Pharmacy have partnered this season to offer vaccine clinics for community members.
Protesters seek universal health care in Springfield
Demonstrators gathered on Chestnut Street in Springfield to advocate for legislation establishing a single-payer health care system in Massachusetts.
Missouri State loses starting linebacker to injury entering Week 2
Another Missouri State player is out for the season after the opening game against Texas A&M. Casey Woods provides an injury update before Week 2.
Commissioner calls for delay ahead of Williamson Health sale vote
Fox 17 provides local news, weather, sports, traffic and entertainment for Nashville and nearby towns and communities in Middle Tennessee, including Forest Hills, Brentwood, Franklin, Fairview, Dickson, Clarksville, White House, Greenbrier, Springfield, Gallatin, Hartsville, Lebanon, Mt Juliet, Smyrna, College Grove, Thompson’s Station, Centerville, Murfreesboro, Columbia, Lewisburg, Shelbyville, Manchester, McMinnville, Smithville, Sparta, Cookeville, Hohenwald, Waverly, Camden, Paris, Lafayette, Portland, and in Kentucky, Russelville, Bowling Green, Franklin, Alvaton, Scottsville, Hopkinsville, Glasgow.
MRN BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT: Makers Market
Downtown Quincy is about to get busy, and the Promenade has three big reasons to make your way down. On this Business Spotlight, brought to you by Bank of Springfield, Crissie Caccamo is joined by Tieraney Craig and Fawn Berry from the Makers Market to talk about a packed few weeks ahead. First up is...
Springfield Mile, Oyster and Beer Festival happening this weekend
After a year off, the Springfield Oyster and Beer Festival returns to the capital city this weekend, along with another popular event.
Forgotten Record Review: Ten Years After
No one talks about Ten Years After today, but they should.
Fenton cites ‘geographic politics’ as Governor’s Council bid fails
SPRINGFIELD — Calling the results an illustration of “geographic politics,” Springfield City Councilor and local attorney Michael Fenton failed in his second attempt for the Eighth District seat on the Governor’s Council.
MNPD: Mental health team not on scene before North Nashville officer-involved shooting
Fox 17 provides local news, weather, sports, traffic and entertainment for Nashville and nearby towns and communities in Middle Tennessee, including Forest Hills, Brentwood, Franklin, Fairview, Dickson, Clarksville, White House, Greenbrier, Springfield, Gallatin, Hartsville, Lebanon, Mt Juliet, Smyrna, College Grove, Thompson’s Station, Centerville, Murfreesboro, Columbia, Lewisburg, Shelbyville, Manchester, McMinnville, Smithville, Sparta, Cookeville, Hohenwald, Waverly, Camden, Paris, Lafayette, Portland, and in Kentucky, Russelville, Bowling Green, Franklin, Alvaton, Scottsville, Hopkinsville, Glasgow.
Dozens of Nashville businesses appeal property value as state leaders prioritize tax cap
Fox 17 provides local news, weather, sports, traffic and entertainment for Nashville and nearby towns and communities in Middle Tennessee, including Forest Hills, Brentwood, Franklin, Fairview, Dickson, Clarksville, White House, Greenbrier, Springfield, Gallatin, Hartsville, Lebanon, Mt Juliet, Smyrna, College Grove, Thompson’s Station, Centerville, Murfreesboro, Columbia, Lewisburg, Shelbyville, Manchester, McMinnville, Smithville, Sparta, Cookeville, Hohenwald, Waverly, Camden, Paris, Lafayette, Portland, and in Kentucky, Russelville, Bowling Green, Franklin, Alvaton, Scottsville, Hopkinsville, Glasgow.
Greenagers founder named Southern Berkshire’s Business Person of the Year
Will Conklin, founder of Greenagers, has been named the 2026 Business Person of the Year by the Southern Berkshire Chamber of Commerce and Pittsfield Cooperative Bank.
RMV to move Chicopee business services to Springfield
The Massachusetts Registry of Motor Vehicles will transfer its business customer services from the Chicopee Service Center to the Springfield Service Center.
RMV relocating Chicopee business services to Springfield
One local Registry of Motor Vehicles location is set to close its doors.
Proposed Springfield zoning ban could block self-storage expansion, cut business value
A proposed zoning ordinance in Springfield would prohibit new mini-warehouse and self-storage facilities in the city.
Massive entertainment complex opens in Springfield
Legends Entertainment is now open in Springfield, offering bowling, arcade games, local food and more for visitors.
Legends Entertainment is now open to the public
A brand-new entertainment space off in Springfield offers bowling, arcade and outdoor fun to the public with a local-favorite food court.
Kids learn about business at Springfield’s Kenefick Park
They introduced their brands, pitched ideas, interacted with customers and sold products they’ve been working on to develop.
Springfield event supports Latino healthcare leadership
The National Association of Latino Healthcare Executives brought together over 150 people in western Massachusetts for a fundraiser celebrating culture and healthcare work.
Quiz: How well do you know Illinois political history?
This week's quiz is all about Springfield.
Mom quits six-figure job to homeschool kids over Springfield gaps
Parents and experts weigh in on the investigation that found Springfield Public Schools was not in compliance with science and social studies curriculum.
On Your Side: Reservations are still being taken for a Springfield motel that’s out of business
Most locals know the Motel 6 on North Glenstone shut down after losing its license, but some out-of-town travelers booking online have no idea.
Springfield calls on Vibra Health to fix hazardous site
Local officials in Springfield say the site of the former Vibra Hospital remains a public safety hazard, calling on the property’s owners to take accountability.
From Kickapoo basketball star to viral sports videographer
Kickapoo graduate Vincent Mhire has transitioned from basketball player to successful videographer, choosing to pursue his media career over playing college basketball.
MRN BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT: Tim Lohmeyer Home Inspections and Improvements
On the MRN Business Spotlight brought to you by Bank of Springfield, Tim Lohmeyer with Tim Lohmeyer Home Inspections and Improvements joins Brittany Boll to talk about his business and the experience and trust he brings to one of the biggest financial decisions most of us will ever make: buying or selling a home. One...
Springfield’s Mindful Miles 5K supports mental health services
The Gandara Center hosted its 12th annual Mindful Miles 5K Walk and Run at Forest Park in Springfield on Saturday morning.
Entertainment with the Illinois Times
There's more than just the Illinois State Fair happening in Springfield -- including music and remembrances of the 1908 Springfield race riots.
Tennessee to execute Anthony Hines as attorneys raise concerns over health, execution team
Fox 17 provides local news, weather, sports, traffic and entertainment for Nashville and nearby towns and communities in Middle Tennessee, including Forest Hills, Brentwood, Franklin, Fairview, Dickson, Clarksville, White House, Greenbrier, Springfield, Gallatin, Hartsville, Lebanon, Mt Juliet, Smyrna, College Grove, Thompson’s Station, Centerville, Murfreesboro, Columbia, Lewisburg, Shelbyville, Manchester, McMinnville, Smithville, Sparta, Cookeville, Hohenwald, Waverly, Camden, Paris, Lafayette, Portland, and in Kentucky, Russelville, Bowling Green, Franklin, Alvaton, Scottsville, Hopkinsville, Glasgow.
Legends Entertainment officially opens in Springfield
Click here to view this video from WAND.
Springfield Business Journal: Children's Mercy with Mercy plans December opening for O'Reilly Pediatric Center
By Geoff PickleMembers of the media yesterday were invited to a sneak peek of the O’Reilly Pediatric Center, a joint project between Mercy Springfield Communities and Kansas City-based Children’s Mercy.The pediatric outpatient center is located on Mercy's south campus that also includes its orthopedic hospital and a new emergency room. The...
Improvement project on Business Interstate 55 through Sherman begins Aug. 10
SPRINGFIELD – The Illinois Department of Transportation announced that an improvement project on Business Interstate 55 (Peoria Road and Sherman...
Springfield police seek help locating woman believed to be in mental health crisis
Springfield police are asking for the public’s help in locating a woman who is believed to be experiencing a mental health crisis.
Springfield group discusses sickle cell and mental health
The Springfield Black Coalition hosted a community health and wellness conversation Friday night in Springfield to discuss sickle cell disease, mental health and senior health.
WPBL looking for longevity as players take the field amid rising popularity for women's sports
SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (AP) — When Alli Schroder first saw “A League of Their Own” — a 1992 movie based on the All-American Girls Professional Baseball League — she saw herself in the story on the screen.
Missouri Gov. Kehoe addresses Springfield business leaders at annual Chamber of Commerce event
Gov. Mike Kehoe visited Springfield on Wednesday to speak to local business leaders at the Springfield Area Chamber of Commerce’s annual State of the State address.
WATCH: ‘Sea Lion Splash’ among entertainment options at Clark County Fair
“Sea Lion Splash,” is one of several entertainment options at the 2026 Clark County Fair.
Gathering Together Farm seeks new owners to nurture community, sustain business
Nearly four decades after they started Gathering Together Farm, owners John Eveland and Sally Brewer are looking for a buyer.
Japan Politics
Japan's Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi speaks during a news conference at the prime minister's office in Tokyo, Monday, July 27, 2026. (David Mareuil/Pool Photo via AP)
Ranking Members Markey, Velázquez Push to Roll Back Trump Administration’s Discriminatory SBA Lending Policy that Blocks Immigrant Entrepreneurs from Pursuing the American Dream
Bicameral resolution would rescind Trump administration policy banning green card holders from accessing SBA loans Resolution Text (PDF) | One-Pager (PDF) (Washington, July 23) – Ranking Member Edward J. Markey (D-Mass.) and House Small Business Committee Ranking Member Nydia M. Velázquez (D-NY-7) today introduced a Congressional Review Act (CRA) resolution to rescind the Trump administration’s policy that bans green card holders from accessing essential Small Business Administration (SBA) loans to start and grow their businesses and invest in Main Streets nationwide. Trump’s SBA restrictions buck decades of precedent, attacking immigrant small business owners who are lawfully in the U.S. with no justification. The Trump administration’s green card holder ban is the most recent escalation of SBA’s draconian citizenship restrictions that are killing jobs and putting the American Dream further out of reach for entrepreneurs. In Fiscal Year 2025, the SBA made an estimated $5.7 billion in loans to green card holders, which supported more than 80,000 American jobs. Ranking Member Markey’s introduction of the CRA resolution follows his introduction of the Investing in the American Dream Act alongside Ranking Member Velázquez earlier this year. The Investing in the American Dream Act would roll back the SBA’s draconian lending restrictions and restore previous SBA lending policies for immigrant entrepreneurs lawfully in the U.S., including green card holders, refugees, and asylees. More than 100 organizations have called for the passage of the legislation and over 60 Massachusetts state legislators have raised concerns about the impact of the citizenship restrictions in their local communities. “Once again, Donald Trump is shutting hardworking immigrants out of the American Dream with his discriminatory and dangerous policies, fear tactics, and violent rhetoric. The anti-small business lending requirements implemented by Trump’s SBA won’t Make America Great Again—they are Making America Hate Again,” said Ranking Member Markey. “I am fighting every single day to roll back Trump’s brazen attempt to steal the American Dream from entrepreneurs in Massachusetts and across the country who enrich our communities, strengthen our Main Streets, and create jobs in the United States.” “Starting and owning your own business is one of the pillars of the American Dream. Under the Trump Administration, the SBA has sought to deny immigrant small business owners and entrepreneurs that dream by preventing them from accessing the capital they need to grow and scale their businesses. Not only is this policy cruel, but it is also self-defeating and holds our country back economically. As Ranking Member of the House Small Business Committee, I will do everything in my power to reverse this terrible policy,” said Ranking Member Velázquez. Massachusetts state legislators applauded Ranking Member Markey’s actions and emphasized the critical contributions of green card holders to Bay State communities and the Commonwealth’s economy. "Green card holders are our neighbors, workers, entrepreneurs, and taxpayers,” said Massachusetts State Senator Adam Gómez (D-Springfield), Senate Chair of the Joint Committee on Community Development and Small Businesses. “They open restaurants, launch small businesses, create jobs, and contribute every day to the economic strength of Massachusetts. Denying lawful permanent residents access to SBA loan programs doesn't make our economy stronger—it makes it harder for small businesses to succeed. I support this resolution because opportunity should never be limited by unnecessary barriers that prevent hardworking people from investing in their communities and pursuing the American dream." “Senator Markey’s CRA Resolution provides a valuable moment for our federal leaders to show their commitment to small businesses and the American Dream,” said Massachusetts State Representative Andy X. Vargas (D-Haverhill), House Chair of the Joint Committee on Community Development and Small Businesses. “The SBA’s recent policy restricting lawful residents from accessing the popular 7(a) and 504 programs has shut out some of the most entrepreneurial and hard-working members of our community from much-need capital. In Massachusetts, these programs have invested millions of dollars into small businesses owned by green card holders, supporting thousands of jobs. This should not be a partisan issue. People who worked hard, have legal status, and contribute so much to their communities via employment and economic impact don’t deserve to be in the crosshairs for political purposes. The Senator’s resolution is a step forward in restoring access to the American Dream that small business owners across the country deserve.” Several small business advocates and stakeholders voiced their support for Ranking Member Markey’s efforts to roll back Trump SBA’s discriminatory lending rules. “Immigrant-owned businesses are the foundation of the American economy. They power our neighborhoods, provide essential services, and employ our loved ones. Yet, systemic hurdles like the Small Business Administration’s citizenship restrictions unfairly block their path to prosperity," said Elizabeth Sweet, Executive Director of the Massachusetts Immigrant and Refugee Advocacy (MIRA) Coalition. "We applaud Senator Markey’s continued leadership and look forward to a future where immigrant entrepreneurs can share their ingenuity without arbitrary restrictions that hold us all back.” “Independent restaurants have always been built by people willing to work hard, take risks, and invest in their communities. When lawfully authorized entrepreneurs lose access to the financing they need to start or grow a business, we all lose. These are the businesses creating jobs, filling storefronts, and strengthening our neighborhoods. Access to capital should help good businesses succeed, and that’s exactly what restoring these SBA loan programs would do,” said Jen Ziskin, Executive Director of Massachusetts Restaurants United. “At the Latino Economic Development Corporation, we see firsthand that access to capital transforms lives, creates jobs, and strengthens neighborhoods. Many of the entrepreneurs we serve are lawful permanent residents who have invested their savings, opened businesses, and employ local residents. Restricting access to SBA financing doesn’t just impact business owners, it limits economic opportunity for entire communities. Main Street succeeds when every qualified entrepreneur has a fair chance to grow,” said Andrew Melendez, CEO and Founder of the Latino Economic Development Corporation. "Immigrants and immigrant-owned businesses are the heart and soul of small business communities in cities and towns throughout the Commonwealth, and across America. Limiting access to these SBA loans not only sends the wrong message about immigration, it will have significant negative economic impact on our small business ecosystem,” said Keith Mahoney, Vice President of Public Affairs at the Boston Foundation. “The SBA’s recent policy changes that prevent Legal Permanent Residents, and other non-citizens from participating in any of the SBA’s valuable programs are changes that are unwelcome, immoral, and antithetical to our purpose, our mission, and our vision for Massachusetts communities and businesses. Immigrant entrepreneurs and others have expressed concern that Common Capital will ‘report them to ICE,’ so loan demand has decreased. There is no valid reason for excluding Legal Permanent Residents and other noncitizens who are lawfully present in the U.S. from accessing the SBA’s programs. Immigrant entrepreneurs start businesses, they create jobs, they support their families and their communities. Our government should be in the business of encouraging their full participation in our economy,” said Raymond Lanza-Weil, President of Common Capital. "ECCHO-Latino now represents over 400 educators and 300 microbusinesses across Massachusetts, where immigrants make up 60% of the childcare workforce. When a green card holder is ready to grow her business—from expanding her home child care to opening a center—she shouldn't be turned away by local banks simply because of federal citizenship rules. Blocking access to SBA loans kills opportunity and deepens our state's childcare crisis. ECCHO-Latino strongly supports Senator Markey and Representative Velázquez in passing this resolution to put Main Street first," said Harold Antonio Blanco, Co-Founder & Executive Director of ECCHO-Latino Inc. "This is exactly how political ideology ruins an economy. Washington has taken lawful, tax-paying entrepreneurs who live in our communities, invest in America, and hire American workers, and declared their businesses ineligible for critical financing simply because a green card holder owns even a fraction of the company. Using policies ostensibly aimed at illegal immigration to punish lawful permanent residents is nothing short of ideological overreach and economic self-sabotage. The SBA exists to help viable small businesses grow, rather than imposing nativist tests that ignore an entrepreneur’s credit history, business plan, or ability to create jobs. When the federal government closes the door on qualified entrepreneurs, they’re also closing the door on American entrepreneurship and on American workers, while handing future companies, jobs, innovation, and investment to our competitors. America should be competing to attract people who want to invest and build here, not creating arbitrary barriers that drive their talent and capital elsewhere,” said Javier Palomarez, President and CEO of the United States Hispanic Business Council (USHBC). "The U.S. Small Business Administration's decision to prohibit legal permanent residents, including green card holders, from accessing SBA-backed loans has the potential for disastrous consequences that could reverberate throughout America's economy for years to come. After all, immigrants are twice as likely to start small businesses as U.S.-born individuals. Congress must overturn rules requiring the SBA to block legal permanent residents from accessing lending resources because so many of the entrepreneurs who drive job creation in this country were born outside the United States," said John Arensemeyer, Founder and CEO of Small Business Majority. “NCRC supports the Congressional Review Act resolution to overturn SBA’s citizenship restrictions that bar green-card holders from receiving the 7(a) and 504 loans. When qualified entrepreneurs are denied access to SBA loans, all of Main Street gets hurt. Communities lose jobs. Neighborhoods lose services. Local economies lose the opportunity to build wealth and shrink disparities,” said Jesse Van Tol, President & CEO of the National Community Reinvestment Coalition (NCRC). “We cannot afford to have the American Dream out of reach for hard-working, immigrant small business owners.” “Asian Americans and Asian immigrants have been integral in building local economies. They create businesses, jobs, and opportunities in communities across the country that benefit everyone. Lawful permanent residents pay taxes, invest in their communities, and strengthen Main Street, yet the SBA's discriminatory citizenship restrictions unfairly deny them access to the same tools that help small businesses grow and succeed. We applaud congressional leaders for advancing this resolution to overturn the latest restrictions on SBA lending for green card holders, and we urge lawmakers to also pass the Investing in the American Dream Act to fully restore access to SBA loan programs for all eligible people in the United States. Ensuring that immigrant-owned small businesses have a fair opportunity to access capital is essential to building a stronger, more inclusive economy that works for all,” said Joanna Derman, Director of Anti-Profiling, Civil Rights and National Security at Asian Americans Advancing Justice (AAJC). "Immigrant-owned businesses often turn to SBA 7(a) and 504 loans because they face higher denial rates from traditional lenders,” said Imani Augustus, Director of the Center for Entrepreneurial Opportunity. "These programs provide the capital they need to expand operations, hire workers, and invest in their businesses. Reversing the ban on lawful permanent residents is a critical first step toward ensuring these financing tools are accessible to everyone strengthening their communities through entrepreneurship. We applaud this action and urge Congress to fully restore access by passing the Investing in the American Dream Act.” "Last year, nearly 5,700 SBA loans worth $5.7 billion went to businesses owned by green card holders, supporting more than 80,000 jobs. These are entrepreneurs who have put down roots here, hired their neighbors, and invested in the communities they call home. Barring them from capital doesn't protect Main Street—it starves it. What should matter is the strength of a business and its potential to grow, not the immigration status of its owner. This resolution doesn’t eliminate all the citizenship restrictions in SBA’s policy change, but it’s a step toward restoring a commonsense principle that stood for more than 30 years," said Howard Wial, Director of Research at ICIC. "I'm encouraged to see Congress moving to reopen access to capital for green card holders, a key tool for small business survival. Green card holders accounted for an estimated 5,700 SBA loans in Fiscal Year 2025, worth $5.7 billion and supporting more than 80,000 jobs across the country. That capital is often what keeps a business operating through its toughest stretches when cash flow gets tight. When qualified entrepreneurs lose access to that capital over their immigration status rather than their ability to repay a loan, it's the local economy that pays the price,” said Small Business for America's Future Co-Chair Shaundell Newsome, Founder of Sumnu Marketing. “Small businesses are the backbone of the American economy, and entrepreneurs —including green card holders — take risks every day to build businesses, create jobs, and strengthen communities. SBA loan programs should be administered with clear, consistent standards that safeguard public resources while ensuring these programs remain focused on supporting eligible entrepreneurs and job creators. This resolution responds to the opportunity to support all entrepreneurs and preserve the integrity of federally supported lending programs. We applaud the introduction of this resolution and remain committed to policies that strengthen small businesses, promote economic growth, and maintain confidence in these vital lending programs,” said Carolina Martinez, CEO of CAMEO Network. “National CAPACD wholeheartedly supports the introduction of this resolution aimed at overturning the SBA's misguided policy prohibiting immigrants from accessing the 7(a) and 504 loan programs. As a coalition, we are committed to creating systems, organizations, and societies that are fair and just. We believe we and our economy are stronger when we uplift our rich and diverse communities. Access to capital helps small businesses create jobs, build wealth, and strengthen neighborhoods. Restoring this pathway is an important first step toward ensuring immigrant entrepreneurs can continue to grow their businesses and contribute positively to our economy as a whole. We urge Congress to build on this momentum by passing the Investing in the American Dream Act, which would fully restore fair access to safe and affordable credit and uphold our commitment to a fair economy that works for everyone,” said Seema Agnani, CEO of National CAPACD. Ranking Member Markey is fighting for small business owners and immigrants that rely on SBA loans to start and run their businesses, create jobs, and contribute to their communities. In May, Ranking Member Markey highlighted the significant contributions of immigrant entrepreneurs in Massachusetts and across the country and condemned the Trump administration’s repeated attacks on immigrant communities at a Small Business Committee hearing. MIRA’s Elizabeth Sweet, who participated in Ranking Member Markey’s listening session earlier in May, provided testimony at the hearing. Also in May, Ranking Member Markey hosted a listening session at the Urban College of Boston to hear directly from several Massachusetts immigrant small business owners, lenders, and chambers of commerce how President Trump’s cruel and callous anti-immigrant policies are hurting Main Streets in the Bay State. Earlier in May, Ranking Member Markey hosted a press conference alongside Ranking Member Velázquez, Democratic lawmakers, and stakeholders to condemn the Trump administration’s harmful anti-immigrant lending policies and to introduce the Investing in the American Dream Act. In March, Ranking Member Markey released a comprehensive report detailing the harms to small business owners, workers, and consumers caused by the Trump administration’s ICE raids in communities across the country. In February, Ranking Member Markey introduced the Small Business ICE Disruption Fund Act, which would provide grants to small businesses that have been impacted by the Trump administration’s violent immigration enforcement actions on Main Streets across the United States. Earlier in February, Ranking Member Markey, Ranking Member Velázquez, Congressional Black Caucus Chair Yvette Clarke (D-N.Y.), Congressional Hispanic Caucus Chair Adriano Espaillat (D-N.Y.), and Congressional Asian Pacific American Caucus Chair Grace Meng (D-N.Y.) sent a letter urging the SBA to rescind their lending rule change that bars legal permanent residents from receiving SBA loans. Previously, Ranking Members Markey and Velázquez released a statement condemning the actions of the SBA after it announced that small businesses with legal permanent residents will be barred from receiving SBA loans. In December 2025, Ranking Member Markey and all Democratic members of the Senate Small Business Committee sent a letter to the SBA reiterating concerns with the SBA’s citizenship requirements and highlighting a drop in SBA lending volume. In September 2025, Ranking Member Markey heard directly from SBA lenders about the issues with the citizenship verification requirements. In July 2025, Ranking Members Markey and Velázquez sent a letter to the SBA expressing serious concerns with the agency’s new, draconian citizenship verification requirements that require small businesses seeking SBA loans to be 100% owned by U.S. citizens, nationals, and legal permanent residents. SBA has not responded to the letter. ###
Business Briefs: July 24, 2026
Freedom Credit Union appoints new vice president of human resources SPRINGFIELD — Freedom Credit Union has named Jennifer McPherson as its new vice president of human resources. She brings more than 20 years of human resources leadership experience in the financial services and healthcare industries to the organization. “Jennifer’s experience and leadership will help us continue investing […]
Sports writer Liam Keating joins the News-Leader staff
Liam Keating joins the Springfield News-Leader to cover high school sports and Missouri State athletics.
The scores are in. Who received low, high scores in health inspections?
Health inspection shows Springfield Huddle House received a score of 64, observed mold-like substance.
Intercard teams up with Legends Entertainment at Scheels Sports Park in Illinois
ST. LOUIS — Intercard’s latest cashless technology has been chosen to manage the state-of-the-art arcade at Legends Entertainment in Springfield, Illinois. Legends will cater to kids and families p…
Cramer, Mulvaney Garner College Sports Communicators Academic All-America Accolades
Springfield, Mass. – July 17, 2026 – Springfield College men's volleyball senior Dylan Mulvaney (Reston, Va.) and men's gymnastics junior Peyton Cramer (Grapevine, Texas) have earned spots on the College Sports Communicators Academic All-America Teams this year for their hard work in the classroom and in their sports during the 2025-26 academic year.
Springfield June business openings, closings
Multiple new businesses opened in June around the capital city, while some others closed their doors for the final time.
Chico City Council approves entertainment zones for downtown and Meriam Park
CHICO, Calif. - Chico City Council voted 6 to 0 to approve an ordinance creating entertainment zones in downtown Chico and Meriam Park.The ordinance, taking effect September 18, 2026, will allow customers to carry approved alcoholic beverages and walk around outside within those designated areas."I feel like the downtown could use all the help it could get right now," said Celeste Cramer, general manager of Downtown Chico Business Association. "In the other areas where they have been doing the entertainment zones and throughout California, it has increased their sales. They haven't seen an increase in violence, or tickets, or anything like that. It's a good thing to try out."Numerous other cities around California such as Redding, Sacramento and San Francisco have put their own entertainment zones into effect and have had success.Action News Now stopped by both designated locations and spoke with organizers and bar owners."I'm super excited, I think this is an opportunity for us," said Scott Baldwin, owner of Argus. "We can get a booth at the farmers market. You can order a cocktail from that booth and then we'll have it ready for you at the door as you walk through. Think of it as a picnic situation. You can grab some tacos, you can get a Kentucky Buck. You can sit down anywhere in the entertainment zone and enjoy Argus outside of Argus."Chico's Chamber of Commerce hosted community stakeholder meetings and community engagement sessions to tailor the ordinance to the city's needs as a university town and rural area.The ordinance will allow people 21 and older to walk around with open containers of alcohol within the entertainment zones as long as they have a wristband, stamp or another visible marker showing they're allowed to do so."To us it's more than an ordinance," said Jen Rothenwander, marketing manager at Meriam Park. "It's an opportunity to invest back into the community, and to continue to do what Chico does well – which is to create the spaces for people to stick around and gather, and shop and spend."The Meriam Park entertainment zone will be enclosed by Springfield Drive, Alcott Avenue, Notre Dame Boulevard and E. 20th Street.The Downtown Chico entertainment zone will span mostly from Highway 32 to Lost Park.Chico Chief of Police Billy Aldridge spoke with Redding Police and was informed they had zero problems with their entertainment zone.Chief Aldridge endorses the ordinance in Chico. freestar.config.enabled_slots.push({ placementName: "actionnewsnow-com_blox_yup-rectangle-one", slotId: "actionnewsnow-com_blox_yup-rectangle-one", targeting: { "pos": "yup-rectangle-one" } });
Healey defends $2B courthouse deal for company connected to political heavyweights
Gov. Maura Healey is defending the nearly $2 billion state contract for a new Springfield courthouse awarded to a company co-owned by Ayanna Pressley’s husband and the current head of the MCCA.
The World Cup showed me sports fans are the same everywhere
The players were different, the songs were different and the sport was different. The hope, heartbreak and belief? Those felt just like home.
‘Take Me Home’: The science of why singing together brings us closer
The cameras panned across thousands of fans, arms draped over the shoulders of friends and strangers alike, singing at the top of their lungs. As John Denver’s “Take Me Home,
The problem with drinking too much water
Kelsey Wallis’s migraines started during track season. At first, she blamed the Springfield, Mo., heat. Wallis was a high school distance runner...
WMass business leaders call for return of local SBA office
A coalition of local business groups sent a letter to Small Business Administration urging the re-opening of a Springfield branch office
NFIB Releases Illinois Small Business Legislative Voting Record
28 Illinois legislators scored 100% on NFIB’s legislative scorecard
New outdoor playground opens as part of Eugene Science Center expansion
The outdoor science park, which opened last week, doubles the museum’s footprint and offers a fenced-in area for children to climb, slide and run. Three more play structures will be added in the fall.
MRN BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT — Sheryl Scarbrough, TCBY
Today on Business Spotlight, brought to you by Bank of Springfield, Crissie Caccamo sits down with Sheryl Scarbrough, owner and operator of TCBY Quincy. Did you know TCBY stands for The Country’s Best Yogurt? As the Quincy favorite celebrates 40 years of serving the community, Sheryl shares the story behind the business, the legacy her...
Freedom Fest announces last-minute lineup change to entertainment schedule
The City of Springfield's Freedom Fest is happening tonight, but there's a last-minute change to the lineup.
2 dead after shooting at Springfield Mercy Hospital parking garage; mental health experts urge grace for grieving staff
Two people are dead after a shooting at a Mercy Hospital parking garage early Thursday morning, and mental health professionals are urging those affected — including hospital staff — to be patient with themselves as they grieve.
France Politics
France's President Emmanuel Macron chairs the fifth follow-up meeting on combating drug trafficking, at the Elysee presidential Palace in Paris, Thursday July 2, 2026. (Simon Wohlfahrt/Pool Photo via AP)
TPS decision causing uncertainty for Haitian business owners
While the legal battle over ending protections for Haitians continues, uncertainty is growing at area businesses in Springfield
TPS decision causing uncertainty for Haitian business owners
While the legal battle over ending protections for Haitians continues, uncertainty is growing at area businesses in Springfield
Springfield trash company accused of unfair business practices
Customers tell KY3 they weren't given complete information about the service terms by GFL Environmental representatives.
Fire breaks out at Springfield business Wednesday morning
Crews are battling a fire at a Springfield business.
Small business is about people helping people
Local Chamber president Mike Murphy says it means jobs for our community.
Memorial Health Championship in full swing in Springfield
Organizers are also offering additional attractions beyond golf, including food trucks, the Scheels Fan Zone and Family Fun Day on Saturday, which features a superhero theme for children and families.
Ohio politicians respond to Supreme Court TPS ruling for Haitians and Syrians
The decision impacts more than 350,000 Haitians and 6,000 Syrians across the country, including many in Ohio.
Honoring the best in small business
Fifth Street Renaissance, Resource One, Cured Catering, and ChangeBridge Consulting are all honored.
Six Female Student-Athletes Named to College Sports Communicators At Large Academic All-District Team
Springfield, Mass. – June 23, 2026 – Six Springfield College student-athletes were named to the 2026 College Sports Communicators (CSC) Academic All-District Team this year.
IHSA reacts as lawmakers propose bill requiring oversight on girls' sports impact
A new bill in Springfield would seek to overturn an IHSA decision to change the girls' high school flag football season
Fire at Whiteaker business now being investigated as arson
KVAL CBS 13 is the news, sports and weather source for Eugene, Oregon and nearby communities, including Springfield, Santa Clara, Coburg, Pleasant Hill, Creswell, Churchill, Alvadore, Marcola, Dexter, Thurston, Junction City, Brownsville, Harrisburg, Alvadore, Veneta and Alpine.
Thousands more business owners — including Springfield council members — disclosing taxable property to keep business license
Learn about the challenges small business owners face in Springfield with the new ordinance requiring payment of business personal property taxes.
$24M Springfield sports, wellness center to begin construction this year
A downtown Springfield indoor sports and wellness facility will begin construction this year thanks in part to state capital funds.
Handing off a family business: Time turns another page from one generation to the next
Was it worth the sacrifices our family made? Maybe it will take years to reap the harvest of our decisions.
5 Florida restaurants, breweries that host weekly trivia nights
Several Treasure Coast bars, breweries and restaurants host trivia nights. Here are 5 to try. What's your trivia forte?
Fire crews respond to 2:30 a.m. blaze at Whiteaker business
Eugene Springfield Fire responded to an early morning fire at a business in Eugene’s Whitaker neighborhood on Saturday.At just after 2:30 a.m. on June 20, call
Fire crews respond to 2:30 a.m. blaze at Whiteaker business
Eugene Springfield Fire responded to an early morning fire at a business in Eugene’s Whitaker neighborhood on Saturday.At just after 2:30 a.m. on June 20, call
Fire crews respond to 2:30 a.m. blaze at Whiteaker business
KVAL CBS 13 is the news, sports and weather source for Eugene, Oregon and nearby communities, including Springfield, Santa Clara, Coburg, Pleasant Hill, Creswell, Churchill, Alvadore, Marcola, Dexter, Thurston, Junction City, Brownsville, Harrisburg, Alvadore, Veneta and Alpine.
Springfield schools business manager: When bidding out bus fuel, it’s all about the markup
The sellers' profit margins are really what are up for bid.